Container Lid Construction for Preventing Leakage

ABSTRACT

A container lid construction minimizes liquid leakage from a seamed liquid container when outfitted thereupon. The container lid construction provides a rim-engaging construction, which when outfitted upon an upper container rim of the seamed liquid container forms a liquid leakage channel at the site of a stepped seam section of the seamed liquid container. The rim-engaging construction defines at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to the liquid leakage channel for enhancing pressure equalization within and without the seamed liquid container when the container lid construction is outfitted thereupon. The rim-engaging construction further includes at least two step-engaging sections that flank each air pocket construction for forming spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel. Together, the step-engaging sections, air pocket construction(s), and liquid plugs minimize liquid leakage.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Prior History

This application claims the benefit of or priority to pending (1) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/547,287 filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on 19 Nov. 2014, the specifications of which are hereby incorporated by reference thereto.

2. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a lid construction or assembly for outfitting a hot beverage container. More particularly, the present invention relates to a container lid construction for outfitting a hot beverage container for preventing spillage or leakage of beverage from such an outfitted beverage container.

3. Brief Description of the Prior Art

European Patent No. EP 1,367,001 ('001 Patent), authored by Seda Spa, discloses a Cup Shaped Receptacle and Lid. The '001 Patent describes a cup-shaped receptacle having an outer bead in its opening area for clipping on a plastic lid. The lid has a circumferentially continuous clamping groove for receiving the bead. The clamping groove is continued outwards by an elastically deformable constriction, and inwards by an outer wall of a circumferentially continuous, U-shaped lid recess, the U-web of which is situated below the height position of the constriction and the inner leg wall of which forms a part of a dome wall of a dome which extends upwardly beyond the height position of the constriction.

The lid recess extends downwards beyond the height position of the constriction and has an outer diameter at its outer surface which is adapted to the inner diameter of the receptacle wall such that the lid recess functions at least as a centering and guide projection for the lid-clip-on action, which projection slidingly co-operates with the receptacle wall already at least while the bead passes the constriction.

The rigid dome structure is said to force the inner receptacle wall portion into a parallel relationship to the outer leg wall resulting in a high holding force and a markedly stiffened opening portion of the closed receptacle. Additionally, the co-action between the shoulders may result in a clip-on limiting stop preventing that the bead will be deformed too much. The abutting shoulders may maintain the bead and the clamping groove in a preloaded closing condition characterized by being leak-proof. The primary objective of the '001 patent thus appears to be one of maximizing lid-to-container securement with a secondary effect of minimizing liquid leakage via the secure attachment.

United States Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0127267, authored by Leach, describes a reusable, flexible beverage lid designed to fit various beverage containers. The beverage lid includes a drink through cover portion having a generally circular periphery and a flexible sidewall with a profile enabling sealing against varying dimensioned beverage containers. The shape of the sidewall profile allows the lid to reliably seal and be easily assembled against various beverage containers and is generally consistent circumferentially. The lid design is such that it can be scaled radially to fit a further amount of beverage containers. The import of the Leach application is a flexible/expandable seal for accommodating container rims of differing sizes.

From a consideration of the foregoing, it will be noted that the prior art perceives a need for a low cost container lid construction usable in combination with a seamed hot beverage container for minimizing or preventing liquid leakage at the stepped seam section of the seamed hot beverage container. More particularly, the prior art perceives a need for a beverage container lid construction comprising specially formed rim-engaging constructions for retaining liquid within the space defined by the lid construction via pressure equalization effects of the specially formed rim-engaging construction(s).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The primary objective of this invention is the provision of a number of beverage or liquid container lid constructions for preventing or minimizing beverage or liquid leakage via the lid to rim interface as often occurs with state of the art seamed cups when outfitted with state of the art container lids. To achieve this and other readily identifiable objectives, the present invention provides a number of different embodiments of a container lid construction for preventing or minimizing liquid leakage from a seamed liquid container when outfitted thereupon.

Seamed liquid containers usable with the container lid construction(s) according to the present invention essentially comprise a stepped seam section at an upper container rim of the liquid container. Generally speaking, the weakest leaking point on a paper cup is the seam or paper joint. Most disposable lids attempt to minimize or prevent leakage by creating a tight continuous grip circumferentially around the cup rim. This structure, however, creates a continuous liquid leakage channel through which liquid may seep or leak.

Specially formed air pocket(s) according to the present invention brake the continuous liquid leakage channel and allow liquid to migrate toward lower pressure areas (e.g. filling air pocket(s)) before migrating through the liquid leakage channel. Liquid migration through the liquid leakage channel is minimized or prevented by liquid plugs and pressure equalization from within the air pockets for retaining the liquid within the space defined by the container lid constructions.

The container lid construction(s) according to the present invention thus all preferably comprise a specialized rim-engaging construction. As indicated, the stepped seam section of the liquid container forms a liquid leakage channel via or through the upper container rim and rim-engaging construction when the container lid construction is outfitted upon the liquid container.

The rim-engaging construction defines at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to that stepped seam section. A pressure differential becomes present when liquid is deposited within the liquid container, which pressure differential may be equalized via the liquid leakage channel thereby creating an undesirable vacuum or siphoning effect that directs liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel. Each air pocket construction formed in adjacency to the stepped seam section minimizes the vacuum effect and liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel by equalizing pressures within and without the lidded liquid container.

The specialized rim-engaging constructions may preferably, in certain embodiments, provide at least two, circumferentially-extending air pocket constructions. The at least two, circumferentially-extending air pocket constructions may preferably further comprise or provide at least one radially inner air pocket construction and at least one radially outer air pocket construction. The rim-engaging construction(s) may further preferably comprise or provide at least two step-engaging sections.

The at least two step-engaging sections flank each air pocket construction for forming at least two spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel via hydrophilic properties of opposed surfacing and the beverage or liquid within the sufficiently tight space of the stepped seam section. The step-engaging sections, air pocket construction(s), and liquid plugs together operate to further minimize the vacuum effect and liquid leakage.

The at least one air pocket construction may be circumferentially discontinuous, segmented or interrupted thereby providing at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction. The at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction primarily enhances the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizes the air pocket construction, and enhances securement of the container lid to the liquid container while minimizing the vacuum effect and liquid leakage.

The at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction may preferably be defined by periodically and circumferentially spaced rim engagement zones, which rim engagement zones mimic an upper container rim contour in transverse cross-section for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.

The at least one air pocket construction may preferably be tapered or pointed relative to the upper container rim surfacing thereby forming at least one tapered air pocket construction. The at least one tapered air pocket construction maximizes the strength of the rim-engaging construction while further minimizing the vacuum effect and liquid leakage. In at least one embodiment of the container lid construction, at least two air pocket constructions are formed by a circumferentially extending and oppositely tapered trough construction, all of structure maximizes the strength of the rim-engaging construction while further minimizing the vacuum effect and liquid leakage.

It should be understood that in all embodiments, the basic invention may be said to essentially teach or disclose a beverage or liquid container lid construction for minimizing or preventing liquid leakage from outfitted, seamed liquid containers. Other secondary objects of the present invention, as well as particular features, elements, and advantages thereof, will be elucidated or become apparent from, the following brief descriptions of the drawings and the accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and objectives of my invention will become more evident from a consideration of the following brief descriptions of patent drawings.

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a first generic state of the art liquid container assembly depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a first generic lid construction.

FIG. 2 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 2 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section.

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, longitudinal sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 3 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 4 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of a first alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a first alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the first alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned from FIG. 6 to depict the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction between the generic seamed liquid container and the first alternative lid construction according to the present invention, and to highlight the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction between the generic seamed liquid container and the first alternative lid construction according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 7 to show in greater detail the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 9 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction between the generic seamed liquid container and the first alternative lid construction according to the present invention to show in greater detail the stepped seam section.

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary, longitudinal sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 10 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 11 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of a second alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a second alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 14 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section.

FIG. 15A is a fragmentary, longitudinal sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 15 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 15B is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 15A to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of a third alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a third alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 17 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section.

FIG. 19 is a fragmentary, longitudinal sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 18 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 19A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 19 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 20 is a side elevational view of a fourth alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a fourth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 21 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section.

FIG. 23 is a fragmentary, longitudinal sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 22 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 23 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of a second generic state of the art liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a second generic lid construction.

FIG. 26 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 26 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section.

FIG. 28 is a fragmentary, longitudinal sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 27 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 29 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 28 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 29A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of a smooth lid-to-container rim-engagement junction to show in greater detail the smooth lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 29B is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of imperfections at the smooth lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 29A to demonstrate that the smooth lid-to-container rim-engagement junction is imperfect and may cause liquid leakage.

FIG. 30 is a schematic depiction of the second generic state of the art liquid container assembly depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a second generic lid construction with liquid received within the liquid container assembly and liquid leakage from the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 31 a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 30 to show in greater detail liquid leakage through a liquid leakage channel defined by the stepped seam section and the rim-engaging construction of the second state of the art container lid at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 32 is a schematic depiction of the second alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and the second alternative lid construction with liquid received within the liquid container assembly and liquid leakage prevented/minimized at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 33 a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the stepped seam section of the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction as sectioned from FIG. 32 to show in greater detail structures for preventing/minimizing liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel defined by the stepped seam section and the rim-engaging construction of the second alternative container lid at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 34 is a side elevational view of a fifth alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a fifth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a top perspective view of the fifth alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and the fifth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a top plan view of the fifth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 36A is a first longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fifth alternative lid construction according to the present invention as sectioned from FIG. 36 through an air pocket segment of the fifth alternative lid construction.

FIG. 36B is a second longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fifth alternative lid construction according to the present invention as sectioned from FIG. 36 through a rim engagement zone of the fifth alternative lid construction.

FIG. 36C is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the rim engagement zone of the fifth alternative lid construction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 36B to show in greater detail structures associated with the rim engagement zone.

FIG. 36D is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the air pocket segment of the fifth alternative lid construction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 36A to show in greater detail structures associated with the rim engagement zone.

FIG. 37 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the rim engagement zone of the fifth alternative lid construction as attached to an upper container rim of a liquid container to show in greater detail structures associated with the rim engagement zone and how said structures structurally engage the upper container rim.

FIG. 38 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the air pocket segment of the fifth alternative lid construction as attached to an upper container rim of a liquid container to show in greater detail structures associated with the air pocket segment and how said structures structurally engage the upper container rim.

FIG. 39 is a top perspective view of a sixth alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention depicting a generic seamed liquid container and a sixth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 39A is a first longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sixth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container outfitted with the sixth alternative lid construction according to the present invention as sectioned through an air pocket segment of the sixth alternative lid construction.

FIG. 39B is a second longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sixth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container outfitted with the sixth alternative lid construction according to the present invention as sectioned through a rim engagement zone of the sixth alternative lid construction.

FIG. 39C is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the air pocket segment of the sixth alternative lid construction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 39A to show in greater detail structures associated with the air pocket segment and how said structures structurally engage the upper container rim of the liquid container.

FIG. 39D is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the rim engagement zone of the sixth alternative lid construction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 39B to show in greater detail structures associated with the rim engagement zone and how said structures structurally engage the upper container rim of the liquid container.

FIG. 39E is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the air pocket segment of the sixth alternative lid construction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 39C to show in greater detail structures associated with the air pocket segment and how said structures structurally engage the upper container rim of the liquid container.

FIG. 39F is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the rim engagement zone of the sixth alternative lid construction as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 39B to show in greater detail structures associated with the rim engagement zone and how said structures structurally engage the upper container rim of the liquid container.

FIG. 40 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the third alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container with an upper container rim outfitted with the third alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 40A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the third alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 40 to show in greater detail the tapered air pocket construction of the third alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 41 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a seventh alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container with an upper container rim outfitted with the seventh alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 41A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the seventh alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 41 to show in greater detail the tapered air pocket construction of the seventh alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 42 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an eighth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container with an upper container rim outfitted with the eighth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 42A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the eighth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 42 to show in greater detail a trough-bifurcated, tapered air pocket construction of the eighth alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 43 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fourth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container with an upper container rim outfitted with the fourth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 43A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the fourth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 43 to show in greater detail the tapered air pocket construction of the fourth alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 44 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a ninth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container with an upper container rim outfitted with the ninth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 44A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the ninth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 44 to show in greater detail rim engagement structures of the ninth alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 45 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a tenth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention showing a generic liquid container with an upper container rim outfitted with the tenth alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 45A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of the tenth alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention as sectioned and enlarged from FIG. 45 to show in greater detail rim engagement structures of the tenth alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 46 is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view of an eleventh alternative lid container assembly according to the present invention to show in greater detail the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction of the eleventh alternative lid construction relative to the upper container rim.

FIG. 47 is a top perspective view of a generic state of the art liquid or beverage container with stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid or beverage container.

FIG. 48 is a first sequential side elevational view of a generic state of the art liquid container with stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid container just before a material removing tool removes matter from the stepped seam section to render flush the surfacing once material is removed therefrom.

FIG. 48A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 48 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid container just before a material removing tool removes matter from the stepped seam section to render flush the surfacing once material is removed therefrom.

FIG. 49 is a second sequential side elevational view of a generic state of the art liquid or beverage container with stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid or beverage showing material being removed via a material-removing tool from the stepped seam section to render flush the surfacing once material is fully removed therefrom.

FIG. 49A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 49 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid or beverage showing material being removed via a material-removing tool from the stepped seam section to render flush the surfacing once material is fully removed therefrom.

FIG. 50 is a third sequential side elevational view of a generic state of the art liquid container with stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid container, material having been removed via a material-removing tool from the stepped seam section to render flush the surfacing.

FIG. 50A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 50 to show in greater detail the stepped seam section at the upper container rim of the liquid container, material having been removed via a material-removing tool from the stepped seam section to render flush the surfacing.

FIG. 51 is a longitudinal sectional view of a twelfth alternative liquid container assembly according to the present invention to depict the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction between a structurally modified seamed section of the liquid container and the first alternative lid construction according to the present invention, and to highlight the structurally modified stepped seam section at the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction.

FIG. 51A is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 51 to show in greater detail the lid-to-container rim-engagement junction between the structurally modified seamed section of the liquid container and the first alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 51B is a fragmentary, enlarged sectional view to show in greater detail a lid-to-container rim-engagement junction between a second structurally modified seamed section of a liquid container and the first alternative lid construction according to the present invention.

FIG. 52 is a transverse cross-sectional depiction of an upper container rim showing radially inner and outer stepped seam sections.

FIG. 53 is a first sequential, fragmentary, enlarged sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 52 to show in greater detail the radially inner and outer stepped seam sections just before they are removed via a material removal tool.

FIG. 54 is a second sequential, fragmentary, enlarged sectional view to show in greater detail the radially inner and outer stepped seam sections just after they are removed via a material removal tool.

FIG. 55 is a third sequential, fragmentary, enlarged sectional view to show in greater detail the radially smooth or flush inner and outer sections once the material of the stepped seam sections has been removed via a material removal tool.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings with more specificity, the following specifications generally describe a number of container lid constructions for use with a seamed liquid container 10 as may be exemplified by a paper-based cup having a longitudinally extending stepped overlap or seam for completing the transversely circular overall or general construction of the seamed cup or liquid container 10. Seamed liquid containers as typified by the liquid container 10 illustrated and described in these specifications, and state of the art lid constructions do not properly address the prevalent liquid leakage problem associated with seamed liquid containers.

The lid constructions according to the present invention address the liquid leakage problem commonly associated with seamed liquid containers, and thus the lid constructions according to the present invention may be viewed as something of a combination type invention when viewed in combination with seamed liquid containers, or alternatively may be viewed as stand-alone container lids or lid constructions for use in combination with seamed liquid containers. The container lids or lid constructions according to the present invention basically function to prevent liquid leakage 100 from seamed liquid containers as generically depicted and referenced at seamed liquid container 10.

The seamed liquid container 10 may be said to basically or essentially comprise a container wall as at 11 and an upper container rim as at 12. The container wall 11 comprises an inner container wall surfacing as at 13 and an outer container wall surfacing as at 14. The upper container rim 12 extends from the inner container wall surfacing 13 to the outer container wall surfacing 14 and preferably comprises a first or rounded rim transverse cross-section as generally depicted in at least FIGS. 4, 5, 8, 11, 15A, 19, 23, 28, 29, 29A, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 37, 38, 39C, 39D, 40A, 41A, 42A, 43A, 44A, and 45A.

The inner container wall surfacing 13 at the upper container rim 12; the outer container wall surfacing 14; and the rounded rim transverse cross-section of the upper container rim 12 together comprise a longitudinally extending stepped section as at 15 where the typically paper-based material construction of the beverage or liquid container 10 overlaps at the stepped section 15 or seam to generally form a circular transverse container cross-section as generally depicted in at least FIGS. 2, 9, 14, 17, 21, and 26.

The container lids according to the present invention all provide a rim-engaging construction, which rim-engaging construction comprises or provides a second or non-circular rim-engaging transverse cross-section, portions of which non-circular rim-engaging transverse cross-section engage the first or rounded rim transverse cross-section of the upper container rim 12 for securing the various container lids to the liquid container 10. The first or rounded transverse cross-section or the upper container rim 12 is thus shaped differently than the second or non-circular rim-engaging transverse cross-section of the rim-engaging construction for forming at least one air pocket construction in superior adjacency to the stepped section 15 when the container lid(s) is/are attached to the liquid container 10.

FIGS. 1-5 attempt to depict a first state of the art lid-container assembly comprising a generic container lid 16 and a generic liquid container 10 showing a stepped section 15 or seam and a liquid leakage channel 17 formed thereby when the container lid 16 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10. FIGS. 6-12 depict a first alternative lid-container assembly according to the present invention comprising a first alternative container lid 18 and a generic liquid container 10 showing a stepped section 15 or seam and a liquid leakage channel 17 formed thereby when the container lid 18 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10.

FIGS. 13-15B depict a second alternative lid-container assembly according to the present invention comprising a second alternative container lid 19 and a generic liquid container 10 showing a stepped section 15 or seam and a liquid leakage channel 17 formed thereby when the container lid 19 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10. FIGS. 16-19A depict a third alternative lid-container assembly according to the present invention comprising a third alternative container lid 20 and a generic liquid container 10 showing a stepped section 15 or seam and a liquid leakage channel 17 formed thereby when the container lid 20 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10.

FIGS. 20-24 depict a fourth alternative lid-container assembly according to the present invention comprising a fourth alternative container lid 21 and a generic liquid container 10 showing a stepped section 15 or seam and a liquid leakage channel 17 formed thereby when the container lid 21 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10. FIG. 25-31 further attempt to depict a second state of the art lid-container assembly comprising a generic container lid 22 and a generic liquid container 10 showing a stepped section 15 or seam and a liquid leakage channel 17 formed thereby when the container lid 22 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10.

FIGS. 32 and 33 return to the second alternative lid-container assembly according to the present invention as an exemplary lid-container assembly showing the second alternative container lid 19 and generic liquid container 10 with stepped section 15 or seam. The liquid leakage channel 17 formed when the container lid 19 is outfitted upon the liquid container 10 is plugged via liquid plugs 23 there demonstrated. Two spaced liquid plugs 23 flank each air pocket (as at 30 and/or 31) formed in adjacency to the liquid leakage channel 17. The liquid plugs 23 are formed via hydrophilic properties of opposed surfacing of the upper rim-engaging construction (e.g. construction 27) and the lower upper container rim 12 interacting with the beverage or liquid 100 within the sufficiently tight space of the liquid leakage channel 17 defined by the stepped seam section 15.

The step-engaging sections (between arrow ends 32), air pocket construction(s) 30/31, and liquid plugs 23 together operate to further minimize the vacuum effect and liquid leakage. Comparatively referencing FIGS. 30 and 31 versus FIGS. 32 and 33, it will be seen that the container lid 19 operates to prevent liquid leakage 100 from the container assembly via, in part, the structural action and/or formation of the liquid plugs 23 demonstrated in FIGS. 32 and 33.

The stepped section 15 at the seam basically forms a liquid leakage channel 17 from the inner container wall surfacing 13 to the outer container wall surfacing 14 via the upper container rim 12 and contour-mimicking, rim-engaging construction(s) 25 of the container lids 16 and 22 when the container lids 16 and 22 are outfitted upon the beverage or liquid container 10. When liquid 101 is deposited within the liquid container 10 at the inner container wall surfacing 13, a pressure differential is created such that atmospheric pressure as at 115 is less than the pressure 116 within the lidded liquid container 10.

The pressure differential between pressure 115 and pressure 116 is equalizable via the liquid leakage channel 17 thereby creating a vacuum or siphoning effect that undesirably directs liquid or leakage 100 through the liquid leakage channel 17 as generally depicted in FIGS. 30 and 31. Central to the practice of the present invention are rim-engaging constructions 26, 27, 28, and 29 that do not mimic the contour of the upper container rim 12 in structural distinction to the contour-mimicking, rim-engaging construction(s) 25.

The rim-engaging constructions 26, 27, 28, and 29 central to the practice of the present invention provide at least one air pocket construction 30 for minimizing or breaking the vacuum or siphoning effect for preventing liquid leakage 100 through the liquid leakage channel 17. Liquid plugs 23 may preferably flank the at least one air pocket construction 30 or 31 and extend in tangential relation to the rounded surfacing of the upper container rim and further minimize the vacuum effect for preventing liquid leakage 100.

Notably, container lid 19 preferably comprises a rim-engaging construction 27 having at least one radially outer air pocket construction 30 and at least one radially inner air pocket construction as at 31. While FIG. 33 particularly depicts liquid plugs 23 flanking the radially inner air pocket construction 31 in tangential relation to the rounded contour of the upper container rim 12, this is not meant as limiting. Liquid plugs 23 may also flank the radially outer air pocket construction 30 although not specifically illustrated.

The at least one air pocket construction provided by the various rim-engaging constructions preferably extends circumferentially thereby providing at least one circumferentially extending air pocket construction as at 30 in the case in the rim-engaging constructions 26, 28, and 29. Rim-engaging construction 27, by contrast, preferably provides at least two circumferentially extending air pockets, which at least two circumferentially extending air pockets comprise a radially inner air pocket construction as at 31 and a radially outer air pocket construction as at 30.

The rim-engaging constructions 26, 27, 28, and 29 each preferably provide at least first and second step-engaging sections 32 as at arrowed end points. Rim-engaging construction 27 specifically shows a third step-engaging section 32. The step-engaging sections 32 according to the present invention preferably flank the air pocket construction(s) 30 (and 31) for forming at least one radially inner and at least one radially outer liquid plugs 23 within the liquid leakage channel 17 for plugging the same. Referencing FIG. 29, the reader will there see a continuous or uninterrupted step-engaging section as at arrow endpoints 33. A state of the art continuous or near continuous step-engaging section zone as between arrow endpoints 33 enables or enhances the vacuum or siphon effect and thus supports leakage 100. The air pocket-flanking or interrupted step-engaging sections 32; air pocket constructions 30/31; and spaced liquid plugs 32 according to the present invention, by contrast, operate to minimize the vacuum effect and prevent liquid leakage 100.

Referencing FIG. 29A, the reader will there see a snugly fit rim-engaging construction 25 in direct contact with the upper container rim 12 at a junction away from the stepped section 15 or seam. Non-smooth imperfections 54 that are difficult to visually ascertain, however, are very often present in the juxtaposed surfacing between the rim-engaging construction 25 and the upper container rim 12 as more clearly depicted and referenced in FIG. 29B. Any and all such imperfections 54 tend to allow liquid leakage 100. The container lids according to the present invention also function to minimize leakage 100 via these imperfections 54 via the pressure equalization techniques earlier described.

Referencing FIGS. 34-38 and FIGS. 39-39D, the reader will there see a fifth container lid 35 and a sixth container lid 36 according to the present invention. The fifth container lid 35 provides or comprises a rim-engaging construction 34, and the sixth container lid 36 provides or comprises a rim-engaging construction 37. The rim-engaging constructions 34 and 37 basically comprise or provide at least one air pocket construction that is preferably and circumferentially discontinuous or interrupted thereby providing at least one circumferentially discontinuous or interrupted air pocket construction.

The at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction of rim-engaging construction 34 basically functions to further minimize the vacuum effect and prevent liquid leakage. The at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction of rim-engaging construction 34 is defined by periodically and circumferentially spaced rim engagement zones as at 38 compartmentalizing the air pocket into air pocket segments 53, which air pocket segments may each preferably have a uniform pocket segment arc length as at 110.

The rim engagement zones 38 of the rim-engaging construction 34 mimic the first or rounded rim transverse cross-section of the upper container rim 12 for further minimizing the vacuum effect and preventing liquid leakage. The rim engagement zones 38 of the rim-engaging construction 34 define radially extending external grooves for (a) enhancing the strength or firmness of the rim-engaging construction 34 and (b) enhance securement of the container lid 35 to the liquid container 10 for preventing liquid leakage 100.

The at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction of rim-engaging construction 37 basically also functions to further minimize the vacuum effect and prevent liquid leakage 100, and is defined by periodically and circumferentially spaced rim engagement zones as at 39. In contrast to zones 38 which engage the upper container rim 12 in relatively abbreviated arc length contact points (as at 111), the rim engagement zones 39 of the rim-engaging construction 37 each preferably comprise a relatively larger engagement zone arc length as at 112 as compared to the arc length contact points 111 of zones 38.

The circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction of rim-engaging construction 37 is further characterized by periodically spaced air pocket segments 40, each of which comprises a pocket arc length as at 113. The engagement zone arc lengths 112 of the rim engagement zones 39 are comparatively greater than the pocket arc lengths 113 of the air pocket segments 40 for further (a) enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction 37, (b) compartmentalizing the circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction, and (c) enhancing securement of the container lid 36 to the liquid container 10.

Referencing FIGS. 40-45A, the reader will there consider the preferred tapered or pointed shape of the at least one air pocket construction(s) 30 or 31 relative to the curved, arcuate, or rounded upper surfacing of the upper container rim 12. Container lid 20 comprises a rim-engaging construction 28, for example, comprises an upwardly and outwardly directed tapered construction as at vector arrows 102 in FIG. 40A. A seventh alternative container lid according to the present invention is depicted and referenced at 41 in FIGS. 41 and 41A. The seventh alternative container lid 41 preferably comprises a rim-engaging construction 42 that is characterized by an upwardly directed tapered construction as at arrows 103 in FIG. 41A.

An eighth alternative container lid according to the present invention is depicted and referenced at 43 in FIGS. 42 and 42A. The eighth alternative container lid 43 preferably comprises a rim-engaging construction 44 that is characterized by inner and outer upwardly directed tapered constructions as at arrows 104 in FIG. 42A. The eighth alternative container lid 43 differs from the seventh alternative container lid 41 by providing or comprising at least two air pocket constructions as at 30 and 31.

The at least two air pocket constructions 30 and 31 are formed or separated by a circumferentially and oppositely tapered trough construction as at 47. The tapered trough construction 47 preferably and tangentially engages the upper surfacing of the upper container rim 12 and the stepped section 15 (not specifically illustrated). The radially outer liquid plug 23 is thus preferably tangent to rounded portions of both the upper container rim 12 and the trough construction 47. Both (a) an outwardly and upwardly tapered construction as at arrows 102 and (b) an inwardly and upwardly tapered construction as at arrows 105 are evident in the container lids 45 and 47 made the subject of FIGS. 44-45A.

The fourth alternative container lid 21 according to the present invention is further depicted and referenced in FIGS. 43 and 43A. The fourth alternative container lid 21 preferably comprises rim-engaging construction 29 that is characterized by an inwardly and upwardly directed tapered construction as at arrows 105 in FIG. 43A. The tapered constructions and trough construction 47 according to the present invention are preferably so tapered and/or arched in transverse cross-section for enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction(s) while simultaneously providing the vacuum minimizing effect described hereinabove.

The ninth and tenth alternative container lids 45 and 47 according to the present invention are basically depicted in FIGS. 44-45A, and represent slightly varied versions of second alternative container lid 19 respectively comprising rim-engaging constructions 46 and 48. In the case of container lid 45, the inner container wall surfacing 13 at the upper container rim 12 may preferably comprise a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending groove as at 49. The groove 49 could conceivably be formed in a seamed liquid container 10 by removing material from the material thickness of the liquid container 10. The rim-engaging construction 46 of container lid 45 preferably comprises a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridge as at 50.

In the case of container lid 47, the inner container wall surfacing 13 at the upper container rim 12 may preferably comprise a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending depression 51 relatively less pronounced as compared to groove 49. The rim-engaging construction 48 of container lid 47 preferably comprises a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridge as at 52, similarly also relatively less pronounced as compared to ridge 50. The radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridges 50 and 52 are respectively received in the radially outwardly and circumferentially extending groove 49 and depression 51 for enhancing securement of the container lids 45 and 47 to the liquid container.

Referencing FIGS. 46-55, the reader will there consider a number of liquid container assembly constructions showing a structurally modified stepped seam section 15. Material 64 may be removed via a material removal tool 120 rendering flush or smooth the underlying material-removed zone 65. FIGS. 46-50A and FIG. 51B depict structurally modified stepped seam sections whereby material 64 is being or has been removed from upper portions of the stepped seam section 15. FIGS. 51A and 52-55 depict structurally modified stepped seam sections whereby material 64 is being or has been removed from radially inner and/or outer portions of the stepped seam section 15.

The structurally modified stepped seam section 15 may be formed by cutting or sanding via a material removal tool as generically represented at 120. The material 64 may be removed only in the desired areas of contact. The material 64 has been removed from the upper portions of the stepped seam section as in FIG. 46 thereby rendering the upper surface of the paper cup rim even or flush or smooth to allow top side of lid engagement ring to fit perfectly flat.

FIGS. 51A and 51B show the stepped seam section with material 64 removed on outer surfacing as in FIG. 51A and on the outer surfacing and the upper surfacing as in FIG. 51B as attached the liquid container as at 114. The rim-engagement structures according to the present invention specifically provide various air pockets enable the rim-engagement structures to make contact with the smooth or flush surfacing as at 55 to improve the seal or surface-to-surface contact to further minimize liquid leakage 100.

While the above descriptions contain much specificity, this specificity should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as an exemplification of the invention. In certain embodiments, the basic invention may be said to essentially teach or disclose a liquid container assembly for preventing liquid leakage therefrom, which liquid container assembly comprises, in combination, a (seamed) liquid container and a container lid.

The (seamed) liquid container according to or usable with the present invention preferably and essentially comprises a container wall and an upper container rim. The container wall comprises inner container wall surfacing and outer container wall surfacing. The upper container rim extends from the inner container wall surfacing to the outer container wall surfacing and comprises a first rim transverse cross-section. The inner container wall surfacing, outer container wall surfacing, and the upper container rim together comprising a stepped (seam) section.

The container lids according to the present invention each preferably and essentially comprise a rim-engaging construction, which rim-engaging construction(s) each comprise a second, rim-opposing transverse cross-section. The first rim transverse cross-section is shaped differently than the second, rim-opposing transverse cross-section for forming at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to the stepped (seam) section of the upper container rim.

The stepped section forms a liquid leakage channel from the inner container surfacing to the outer container surfacing via the upper container rim and rim-engaging constructions when the container lids are outfitted upon the seamed liquid container. A pressure differential is normally present when liquid is deposited within the liquid container, which pressure differential is equalizable via the liquid leakage channel thereby creating a vacuum effect. This vacuum effect undesirably directs liquid through the liquid leakage channel. Each air pocket construction minimizes this vacuum effect and the attendant liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel.

Each air pocket construction may preferably extend circumferentially for providing at least one circumferentially extending air pocket construction. Certain embodiments of the container lid according to the present invention provide a rim-engaging construction having at least two circumferentially extending air pocket constructions. The at least two circumferentially extending air pocket constructions preferably comprise a radially inner air pocket construction and a radially outer air pocket construction.

Each rim-engaging construction according to the present invention preferably provides at least two step-engaging sections for flanking each air pocket construction and engaging the stepped section. For example, the two step-engaging sections may flank at least the radially inner air pocket construction for forming at least two spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel. The at least two step-engaging sections, radially inner and outer air pocket constructions, and liquid plugs basically operate to minimize the vacuum effect and liquid leakage.

Certain other embodiments of the container lid according to the present invention comprise or provide at least one air pocket construction that is circumferentially discontinuous for providing at least one circumferentially discontinuous or segmented or interrupted air pocket construction. Each circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction enhances the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizes the air pocket construction, and enhances securement of the container lid to the liquid container.

Each circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction may be preferably defined by periodically and circumferentially spaced rim engagement zones. The rim engagement zones mimic the first rim transverse cross-section of the upper container rim for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing each air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.

The rim engagement zones each preferably comprise an engagement zone arc length and the circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction is characterized by periodically spaced air pocket segments. Each air pocket segment comprises a pocket arc length. The engagement zone arc lengths are preferably greater than the pocket arc lengths in at least one embodiment for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.

The rim engagement zones, when of abbreviated arc length, may preferably define radially extending external grooves for further enhancing the firmness of the rim-engaging construction and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container for minimizing liquid leakage. Each air pocket construction may preferably be tapered relative to the upper container rim surfacing for forming at least one tapered air pocket construction. Each tapered air pocket construction maximizes the strength of the rim-engaging construction and further minimizes the vacuum effect and liquid leakage.

In at least one embodiment of the container lid, the at least two air pocket constructions may preferably be formed by a circumferentially extending and oppositely tapered trough construction. The oppositely tapered trough construction is preferably arched in transverse cross-section for enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction of the container lid.

In certain other embodiments of the container lid, the inner container wall surfacing at the upper container rim may preferably comprise a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending formation (e.g. groove 49 and/or depression 51). The rim-engaging construction may further preferably comprise a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridge, which radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridge is receivable in the radially outwardly and circumferentially extending formation for enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.

Stated another way, the present invention basically or essentially provides a number of embodiments of a lid construction for preventing liquid leakage from a seamed liquid container when outfitted thereupon. The lid constructions according to the present invention preferably comprise a rim-engaging construction, which when engaged with an upper container rim of the seamed liquid container forms a liquid leakage channel via a stepped section and the rim-engaging construction. The rim-engaging construction defines at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to the liquid leakage channel for enhancing pressure equalization within and without the seamed liquid container when the lid container is outfitted thereupon.

Thus, the at least one air pocket construction minimizes liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel by enhancing pressure equalization or reducing a pressure differential via the liquid leakage channel. The rim-engaging constructions may each preferably comprise at least two step-engaging sections, which step-engaging sections flank each air pocket construction for forming spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel. Together, the step-engaging sections, air pocket construction(s), and liquid plugs further minimize liquid leakage.

Although the inventive liquid container lids according to the present invention have been described by reference to a number of different embodiments, it is not intended that the novel combinations or assemblies be limited thereby, but that modifications thereof are intended to be included as falling within the broad scope and spirit of the foregoing disclosure, the appended drawings, and perhaps most importantly, the following claims. 

I claim:
 1. A liquid container assembly for minimizing liquid leakage therefrom, the liquid container assembly comprising, in combination: a liquid container, the liquid container comprising a container wall and an upper container rim, the container wall comprising inner container wall surfacing and outer container wall surfacing, the upper container rim extending from the inner container wall surfacing to the outer container wall surfacing and comprising a first rim transverse cross-section, the inner container wall surfacing, outer container wall surfacing, and the upper container rim together comprising a stepped section; a container lid, the container lid comprising a rim-engaging construction, the rim-engaging construction comprising a second, rim-opposing transverse cross-section, the first rim transverse cross-section being shaped differently than the second, rim-opposing transverse cross-section for forming at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to the stepped section of the upper container rim; the stepped section forming a liquid leakage channel from the inner container surfacing to the outer container surfacing via the upper container rim and rim-engaging construction when the container lid is outfitted upon the liquid container, a pressure differential being present when liquid is present within the liquid container, the pressure differential being equalizable via the liquid leakage channel thereby creating a vacuum effect tending to direct liquid through the liquid leakage channel, the at least one air pocket construction for minimizing the vacuum effect and liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel.
 2. The liquid container assembly of claim 1 wherein the at least one air pocket construction extends circumferentially thereby providing at least one circumferentially extending air pocket construction.
 3. The liquid container assembly of claim 2 wherein the rim-engaging construction provides at least two circumferentially extending air pocket constructions, the at least two circumferentially extending air pocket constructions comprising a radially inner air pocket construction and a radially outer air pocket construction.
 4. The liquid container assembly of claim 3 wherein the rim-engaging construction provides at least two step-engaging sections, the at least two step-engaging sections flanking each air pocket construction for forming at least two spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel, the at least two step-engaging sections, radially inner and outer air pocket constructions, and liquid plugs for further minimizing the vacuum effect and liquid leakage.
 5. The liquid container assembly of claim 2 wherein the at least one air pocket construction is circumferentially discontinuous thereby providing at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction, the at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction for enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the at least one air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.
 6. The liquid container assembly of claim 5 wherein the at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction is defined by periodically and circumferentially spaced rim engagement zones, the rim engagement zones mimicking the first rim transverse cross-section of the upper container rim for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.
 7. The liquid container assembly of claim 6 wherein the rim engagement zones each comprise an engagement zone arc length and the circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction is characterized by periodically spaced air pocket segments, each air pocket segment comprising a pocket arc length, the engagement zone arc lengths being greater than the pocket arc lengths for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.
 8. The liquid container assembly of claim 6 wherein the rim engagement zones define radially extending external grooves, the radially extending external grooves for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container for minimizing liquid leakage.
 9. The liquid container assembly of claim 1 wherein the at least one air pocket construction is tapered relative to the upper container rim thereby forming at least one tapered air pocket construction, the at least one tapered air pocket construction for maximizing the strength of the rim-engaging construction and further minimizing liquid leakage.
 10. The liquid container assembly of claim 9 comprising at least two air pocket constructions, the at least two air pocket constructions being formed by a circumferentially-extending and oppositely-tapered trough construction.
 11. The liquid container assembly of claim 10 wherein the trough construction is arched in transverse cross-section for enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction.
 12. The liquid container assembly of claim 1 wherein the inner container wall surfacing at the upper container rim comprises a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending formation, the rim-engaging construction comprising a radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridge, the radially outwardly and circumferentially extending ridge being receivable in the radially outwardly and circumferentially extending formation for enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.
 13. The liquid container assembly of claim 1 wherein a portion of the stepped section is structurally modified by removing material therefrom before the container lid is outfitted upon the liquid container thereby providing a structurally modified stepped section, the structurally modified stepped section for improving a lid-to-container seal for further minimizing liquid leakage.
 14. A lid construction for minimizing liquid leakage from a seamed liquid container when outfitted thereupon, the seamed liquid container comprising a stepped seam section at an upper container rim, the lid construction comprising a rim-engaging construction, the stepped seam section forming a liquid leakage channel via the upper container rim and rim-engaging construction when the container lid is outfitted upon the liquid container, the rim-engaging construction defining at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to the stepped seam section, a pressure differential being present when liquid is in the liquid container, the pressure differential being equalizable via the liquid leakage channel, the at least one air pocket construction for enhancing pressure differential equalization for minimizing liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel.
 15. The lid construction of claim 14 wherein the rim-engaging construction provides at least two air pocket constructions, the at least two air pocket constructions comprising at least one radially inner air pocket construction and at least one radially outer air pocket construction.
 16. The lid construction of claim 13 wherein the rim-engaging construction comprises at least two step-engaging sections, the at least two step-engaging sections for flanking each air pocket construction for forming at least two spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel, the step-engaging sections, air pocket construction(s), and liquid plugs for further minimizing liquid leakage.
 17. The lid construction of claim 13 wherein the at least one air pocket construction is circumferentially discontinuous thereby providing at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction, the at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction for enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.
 18. The lid construction of claim 17 wherein the at least one circumferentially discontinuous air pocket construction is defined by periodically and circumferentially spaced rim engagement zones, the rim engagement zones mimicking an upper container rim contour for further enhancing the strength of the rim-engaging construction, compartmentalizing the air pocket construction, and enhancing securement of the container lid to the liquid container.
 19. A lid construction for minimizing liquid leakage from a seamed liquid container when outfitted thereupon, the lid construction comprising a rim-engaging construction, a stepped seam section of the seamed liquid container forming a liquid leakage channel when the rim-engaging construction is outfitted upon an upper container rim of the seamed liquid container, the rim-engaging construction defining at least one air pocket construction in adjacency to the liquid leakage channel for enhancing pressure equalization within and without the seamed liquid container when the lid construction is outfitted thereupon, the at least one air pocket construction for minimizing liquid leakage through the liquid leakage channel.
 20. The lid construction of claim 19 wherein the rim-engaging construction comprises at least two step-engaging sections, the at least two step-engaging sections flanking each air pocket construction for forming spaced liquid plugs within the liquid leakage channel, the step-engaging sections, air pocket construction(s), and liquid plugs for further minimizing liquid leakage. 